Now that the midterms are behind us, why not take a break from the national political scene to consider the politics of our local food cooperative? Weavers Way is seeking a few member-owners to join the Board of Directors in 2019, and we invite you to consider becoming a candidate. 

Here at the Co-op, we want to support local vendors and pay our staff well. At the same time, we want to make Weavers Way affordable to all who choose to shop with us. Our members love our discounts, yet we need to maintain our cash reserve to survive in the grocery business. Should we take a stand on an international call to action that will impact purchasing options or let members vote with their wallets? The active agenda of the Board includes all of these issues, and more. We focus on the operations and success of our three stores and strategic planning for our future. 

The Board, according to our Bylaws, must have a minimum of nine and a maximum of 11 members. Elections are held every spring, and three Board directors will be elected to three-year terms in 2019. Our cycling system keeps the Board at capacity; turnover is staggered so that newly elected members serve with more experienced members. 

We are looking for candidates who will use their talents and interests and knowledge of our community to represent Co-op members. Those who understand and respect group process serve the Board well. Education and training is provided to all Board members.

We require a generous time commitment from Board directors, as much of our work is done in small groups that supplement our scheduled meetings on the first Tuesday of the month; additional meetings and phone conferences are also called to address timely opportunities for Weavers Way. There is no monetary compensation for Board services.

If you are interested in running, we require you to attend at least one regular Tuesday Board meeting — the next opportunities are Dec. 4, Jan. 8 and Feb. 5 — submit a ballot application, which includes a written statement and a photo, by Feb. 28, and take part in a video interview in early March. 

Informational sessions for prospective candidates will be held Tuesday, Jan. 22, in Mt. Airy; Thursday, Jan. 24, in Chestnut Hill; and Wednesday, Jan. 30, in Ambler. All sessions are at 6:30 p.m.; exact locations will be announced, and interested members may attend any session that is convenient. We also recommend that you review the Board meeting minutes posted under “My Co-op” in the Online Member Center (member.weaversway.coop) to become familiar with our work. 

Serving on the Weavers Way Board is rewarding and greatly appreciated by the membership. As Board members, we have the opportunity to share and spread the cooperative model of business. More information is available at www.weaversway.coop/board-elections.